🇳🇿 7 Days of Food, Wine & Stunning Sights in North Island New Zealand (and not on a tour bus)

Scenic view of rolling green hills and farmland under a partly cloudy sky with some sunlight illuminating the landscape.

A Culinary Exploration of New Zealand’s North Island

Do you love sipping a beverage from a sky-high city? How about an immersive culinary adventure? Or a private wine tasting room?

Begin your experience in Auckland with a local food journey weaving together people, stories, and seasonal tastes.

Then travel south aboard the iconic Northern Explorer train, where panoramic views showcase the heart of New Zealand’s North Island.

In Martinborough, delight in acclaimed vineyards and gourmet pairings showcasing local cuisine.

Finally, unwind in Wellington— exploring vibrant galleries and shops. There’s a reason it’s known as New Zealand’s capital of cool.

Do you crave memorable travel experiences? Every day of this journey is crafted for you to experience the people, sights, and unforgettable flavors of New Zealand.

Day by Day

Days 1–3: Auckland
Day 4: Train to Wellington
Days 5–6: Wellington & Martinborough
Day 7: Departure from Wellington

Let's Talk Travel!
Bright green rolling hills with grazing cows, a dirt road, and a backdrop of mountain ranges under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
Map of New Zealand highlighting a travel route from Wellington to Auckland with stops at Martinborough and two night stays along the route. The map features labels for each city and icons indicating stops, night stays, and the start and finish points.
A city skyline with tall buildings, a prominent tower, and waterfront area with boats and ships during sunset.
A table set with plates of sandwiches, a bowl of cooked oysters, and various utensils and cups at a dining setting.
Vineyard with rows of grapevines on rolling hills, residential houses and trees in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
A red cable car traveling along a track overlooking a cityscape at sunrise or sunset with lush greenery in the foreground and a body of water in the background.

Suggested Itinerary

✈️ Day 1: Arrive in Auckland & Settle In

Kia Ora! Depending on your travel schedule, I’ll arrange a private airport greeter and driver to meet you and craft an ideal first day with time to relax and stroll the waterfront.

🏙️ Day 2: A Day in Auckland (aka City of Sails)

Explore Auckland at your leisure: consider visiting the iconic Sky Tower, Auckland War Memorial Museum, the lush Domain gardens, or taking a Harbour cruise.
I’ll construct the experience based on your top travel priorities.

🍽️ Day 3: Locals-Only Culinary Tour

Enjoy a curated culinary experience across Auckland’s neighborhoods, meet local food artisans, savor seasonal dishes, and dive into the city’s vibrant food culture with a private guide or local partner Big Foody.

I suggest catching an All Blacks rugby match or I’ll arrange a personalized tour at the All Blacks Experience.

🚂 Day 4: Northern Explorer Train to Wellington

Embark on the Northern Explorer rail journey through dramatic landscapes—lush valleys, volcanic peaks, and the iconic Raurimu Spiral—before arriving in the capital, Wellington.
I suggest booking a Scenic-Plus carriage to enjoy an open-air carriage and 360-degree window views for the full experience.

🎨 Day 5: Explore Wellington (aka Welly)

Discover New Zealand’s capital: ride the Cable Car, enjoy a private tour of Te Papa Museum, explore the vibrant art scene with prominent museums and galleries, and unwind along the lively waterfront.
I’ll optimize your day based on your top travel priorities.

🍷 Day 6: Martinborough Wine & Foodie Tour

Travel with a private driver to the charming Wairarapa wine region. Indulge in boutique wineries like Tiwaiwaka Wines and gourmet local produce on a guided foodie tour with Zozo.

The region is especially known for its pinot noirs. Many wineries are within walking or cycling distance of the village square for those who want to explore on two wheels.

👋 Day 7: Farewell from Wellington

Ease into your final day with a leisurely café stop…Wellington is known as the coffee capital of NZ, boasting more cafes per capita than NYC.
I’ll arrange transportation ahead of time, so your departure is stress-free.

A hotel room with a large bed, a mounted TV, and curtains on the window on the left side. On the right side, there is a bathroom area with a bathtub, bottles on the edge, a sink with a mirror, and a towel hanging on the wall.

Where to Stay: SO/Auckland 

A bold, design-forward hotel offering a striking urban retreat in the heart of downtown Auckland.

Set across 16 levels, it boasts sweeping views of the Waitematā Harbour and city skyline, placing guests at the vibrant center of it all. Just steps from luxury boutiques and the waterfront, this stylish stay blends fashion, flair, and unbeatable location for a truly elevated Auckland experience.

💬 Let me book your stay and enjoy VIP perks such as:

⭐$100 resort credit ⭐daily breakfast ⭐upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible

Modern mixed-use building with glass and wooden facade, located near a waterway with boats and a pedestrian walkway, surrounded by trees and people walking and biking.

Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Auckland

Park Hyatt Auckland offers a refined waterfront escape, perfectly positioned on the edge of Wynyard Quarter with panoramic views over the Lighter Basin and Waitematā Harbour.

This sophisticated 5-star residence features 195 elegantly appointed rooms, four world-class restaurants and bars, serene event spaces, a luxurious day spa, a 25-metre infinity pool, and a fully equipped fitness center.

💬 Let me book your stay and enjoy VIP perks such as:

⭐$100 resort credit ⭐daily breakfast ⭐upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible

Elegant hotel lounge with a green bar, floral decorations hanging from the ceiling, and cozy seating including yellow and cream-colored chairs, a green velvet booth, and small tables with flower arrangements.

Where to Stay: Sofitel Wellington

Sofitel Wellington is a 5-star retreat that blends contemporary luxury with the natural charm of New Zealand’s capital. Set beside lush botanic gardens, the hotel is centrally located near Parliament, high-end shopping, and Sky Stadium.

Elegant rooms and suites offer a peaceful escape, featuring plush bedding and premium amenities. Guests can enjoy access to Club Sofitel, with daily breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea, and evening canapés in a relaxed, refined setting.

💬 Let me book your stay and enjoy VIP perks such as:

⭐$100 resort credit ⭐daily breakfast ⭐upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible

Outdoor patio with seating area and view of water, attached to a house with open sliding doors, surrounded by trees, in the evening

Bonus: The Landing

The Landing Residences in the Bay of Islands offer four luxurious, private retreats set within a stunning coastal estate. Guests enjoy personalised service, fine food and wine from the on-site vineyard, and access to six private beaches for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

Explore the region on a cultural cruise aboard Iti Rangi, or chase big game on the luxury fishing vessel Ata Rangi. Enjoy wine tasting, vineyard walks, and in the evening, a torch-lit kiwi-spotting experience—an unforgettable connection to New Zealand’s natural heritage.

View of airplane wing through window during sunset or sunrise.

Getting Here 🇳🇿

✈️ Airlines such as Air New Zealand, Qantas, American, United, and Delta offer nonstop flights to New Zealand from major North American cities— including Dallas, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York (JFK), San Francisco and Vancouver.

🧭 Let me take care of the flight research and booking so you can focus on what you’re most excited to see, do, and taste first.

⭐ This is a sample itinerary and everything is customizable for your highest (and lowest) travel priorities. Get in touch to start planning! ⭐

Ready to Book?
A flock of sheep grazing on a green field with mountains in the background.